Attalus humeralis
LeConte, 1866
Attalus humeralis is a of soft-bodied plant beetle in the Melyridae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1866. The species epithet "humeralis" refers to the shoulder region of the , suggesting distinctive markings or characteristics on the humeral angles. Like other members of the Attalus, it belongs to the Malachiinae, a group commonly known as malachite beetles or soft-winged flower beetles. The genus Attalus is diverse and widespread, with species found across multiple continents.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Attalus humeralis: //ˈæt.ə.ləs hjuːˈmɛr.ə.lɪs//
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Distribution
North America (United States), based on LeConte's original description and the ' presence in North American collections.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The placement of Attalus has historically varied between Malachiidae and Melyridae. Modern treatments (e.g., GBIF, iNaturalist) recognize Melyridae as the valid family, with Malachiidae treated as a (Malachiinae) within Melyridae. This reflects ongoing taxonomic refinement in the superfamily Cleroidea.
Etymology
The specific epithet "humeralis" is derived from Latin "humerus" (shoulder), likely referring to distinctive coloration, markings, or structural features on the humeral angles of the —a common pattern in Attalus .